Truckers and Travelers

Hello, Fellow Drivers!  I saw an interesting article in the Aug/Sept issue of Land Line Magazine that I thought would be of interest to you.  Notice the front cover of this issue is the same picture as my blog!  This trucking industry news covers concealed weapons and I wanted to pass this on to you for your information.  It is about a bill being introduced into the Senate concerning states honoring the concealed weapons permits from other states.  I will warn you though the State of Illinois does not allow weapons in any vehicle.  In fact, it is a felony if they catch you with one, so be aware of this.  This bit of trucking industry news is an important milestone for truckers since we are still not allowed to carry weapons in our trucks.  Enjoy the reading and be safe out there!

Sensible concealed carry bill would protect drivers

U.S. Sen. John Thune
R-South Dakota

Responsible firearm ownership is a freedom that many American citizens rightly hold dear. Protecting one’s life and property is a cherished part of our culture, and more importantly it is necessary for many to secure their livelihoods. Responsible concealed carry laws can help protect drivers on the road, and there are steps Congress can take to remove restrictions on those who frequently cross state lines.

I have introduced a bill in the Senate, the Respecting States Rights and Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, bill number S371, which would allow lawfully permitted concealed carry permit holders the ability to possess a firearm in other states that have similar concealed carry laws. Currently, 48 states have laws permitting some form of concealed carry. However, not all states recognize the concealed carry permits of other states.

Above all, this legislation would eliminate the need for states to enter into complicated, confusing compacts with other states. My bill would not establish a national concealed carry law; states wishing to prohibit concealed carry would still be able to do so. Individuals carrying permitted concealed weapons in other states would be required to abide by that particular state’s firearms laws, including prohibitions on concealed weapons in certain areas, such as schools. Federal and state laws prohibiting firearm ownership and concealed carry permits by certain individuals, such as convicted felons, would still apply as well.

Research demonstrates that states with concealed carry laws enjoy significantly lower rates of violent crime than those states that do not. This legislation is a commonsense measure that would strengthen public safety across the nation while at the same time reaffirming one of our nation’s most fundamental rights.

Truck drivers face many hazards in performing their jobs, including irregular work hours and routes in remote areas of the country. Law-abiding firearm owners shouldn’t have to check their security at the state line, and my bill would make it easier for truck drivers and others to practice responsible self-defense while at the same time honoring state and local firearm laws. LL

Sen. John Thune, R-SD, is in his first term in the U.S. Senate. Most importantly to truckers, he serves on the powerful Science & Transportation Committee.